The Interlake Lightning U18 AAA female hockey team celebrated a few bittersweet moments at their home game on Feb. 8. They honoured nine graduating players, athletes who have been the backbone of the team, contributing countless hours and unwavering passion. And they lost a heartbreak game against the Pembina Valley Hawks.
As the puck dropped against the Hawks, things looked grim when the Lightning found themselves trailing 4-1 with just three minutes left in regulation. But true to their fighting spirit, they rallied together for an incredible comeback that had fans on the edge of their seats. Interlake forced overtime, with the game ending in a loss as they fell 5-4 after a shootout. Windross opened the scoring for the Lightning and added two more goals in the third including the game tying goal. Makayla Sydenham also added a goal in the third period.
Prior to the game, coach Sam Brownell expressed heartfelt gratitude to each graduate on behalf of the Interlake Lightning organization.
Goaltender Orieanna Kennedy played 25 games with the Lightning and has been a great addition to the team. She is outgoing and selfless and always ready to make her teammates and coaches laugh. She plans to continue playing in the Manitoba Women’s Junior League next year.
Lightning forward Brooke Cyr has been a part of the organization for the last two seasons, playing in 91 games. She is a hard-working player who goes 100 percent every time she touches the ice. She plans to pursue a business education in the fall.
Forward Ireland Tymchak played three seasons with the Lightning, suiting up for 146 games and totalling 55 points. She is a hard worker and a leader on and off the ice. She plans to continue her playing career in the fall while studying science.
Defenceman Anne Thiessen has been with the Lightning for the last three years, playing 135 games. She is known as a reliable friend and teammate, always coming to the rink with a smile on her face. In the fall, she plans to pursue business.
Defenceman Kait Yanchishyn has been with the team for the last three seasons, suiting up for 143 games. She is a supportive teammate who always puts others before herself. She plans to take science after graduation.
Goaltender Jane Sugimoto has played 70 games for the Lightning over the last three years. Her teammates see her as quiet and thoughtful. In the fall, she plans to continue her playing career and pursue an education.
Defenceman Shelby Staples is in her third season with the Lightning, playing 145 games. Her teammates see her as a leader on and off the ice and someone who can find the positives in any situation. She plans to continue playing hockey in the fall and pursue a degree in nursing.
Forward Chloe Minkus has been a Bolt for three seasons, totalling 63 points in 139 games. She is a leader on the ice who has given so much to her team. In the fall, she will pursue her academic and playing careers at Niagara University.
Forward Bre-Ann Windross has played the last four seasons for the Interlake Lightning, starting as an underage player. She has 87 points in 187 games played. Bre is always the first to the rink and last to leave, and her teammates see her as a friend and leader who is selfless and charismatic. She will be pursuing her academic and playing career at Maryville University starting in the fall.
The team played Central Plains on Feb. 10, and the score was unavailable at press time.
